Daily editionWednesday, October 22nd, 2025
Good morning, Portland.
The Daily Portland Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 22nd of October.
Culture
Portland City Council renewed the Back Cove Music & Arts Festival through 2028 so that it returns next summer—this decision follows the festival's successful run at Payson Park and supports free admission for children 12 and under.
FOX23Read more
Government
Due to the federal government shutdown, Maine will not issue SNAP benefits for November and low-income families may face delays accessing essential food assistance.
Maine DHHS said benefits already loaded on EBT cards will remain and applications will be processed while recipients are urged to update contact details (for help, call 211 or text your zip code to 898-211).
FOX23Read more
Health
Nurses from Maine Medical Center and Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center will hold a news conference in Augusta on Tuesday at 11 a.m.—they demand better work conditions to address short staffing, patient safety, and workplace violence.
The conference follows previous incidents and a 2022 rally where nurses called for improved safety measures.
FOX23Read more
Lifestyle
New Portland restaurants are opening with a nostalgic look by serving classic comfort food in spaces designed to feel timeless—these venues aim to fill the gap left by recent long-time closures.
Restaurateurs such as Matt Ginn and Siobhan Sindoni are focused on high-quality meals and memorable service, responding to diners looking for familiar tastes in uncertain times.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Tuesday marked National Apple Day and Sweetser's Apple Barrel and Orchard in Cumberland offered 60 varieties of apples, cider doughnuts, honey, vegetables and pumpkins, as ARC Maine's Aysia Reed reported.
Local visitors enjoyed the celebration and the chance to taste fresh, seasonal produce.
WGMERead more
ARC Maine’s Taco Tuesday series spotlights Portland’s Terlingua Outpost — a popular taco joint that offers unique flavors.
The series highlights several standout taco spots across Maine.
FOX23Read more
Sports
Cooper Flagg, the No. 1 NBA draft pick from Maine, makes his NBA debut today with the Dallas Mavericks in their season opener against the San Antonio Spurs at the American Airlines Center.
Former coach Andy Bedard and NBA experts say the skilled forward is ready to play with veteran teammates + learn from their experience.
Portland Press HeraldRead more
Portland Events
Joshua Radin Concert
Friday, October 24th, 2025 · 8-10 p.m. — One Longfellow Square — $11.99 — Enjoy an evening with the empathic troubadour known for heartfelt melodies and powerful storytelling.
The Cat and the Canary
Saturday, October 25th, 2025 · 7:00-8:30 p.m. — Merrill Auditorium — Family-friendly event — Celebrate Halloween with spooky tunes and a fun costume parade on the iconic Kotzschmar Organ.
Saint Motel Concert
Monday, October 27th, 2025 · 7:00-9:30 p.m. — State Theatre — Tickets from $47 — Experience a lively performance by the energetic band Saint Motel in Portland.
BD NOW | 2025 Innovation Summit
Tuesday, October 28th, 2025 · 5:00 PM – 11:30 AM — Cambria Hotel Portland Downtown Old Port — $209.00 plus taxes — A participant-driven experience designed to challenge, inspire, and elevate business development professionals from across the country.
Pierre Bensusan Live Performance
Wednesday, October 29th, 2025 · 7-11 p.m. — One Longfellow Square — Tickets required — Experience an enchanting blend of world music with Pierre Bensusan's captivating guitar melodies.
All Hallow's Market and Flash Tattoo Event
Friday, October 31st, 2025 · 11 AM – 11 PM — Brass & Briar Studios — Free entry — Explore spooky vendors and grab unique flash tattoos at this Halloween-themed market.
Worcester Railers vs. Maine Mariners
Friday, November 7th, 2025 · 7:15-8:45 p.m. — Cross Insurance Arena — Ticket required for all ages 2 and up — Catch an exciting hockey showdown in Portland!
Annual Celtic Fair 2025
Saturday, November 8th, 2025 · 9 AM – 3 PM — Maine Irish Heritage Center — Free entry — Celebrate the holiday spirit with Irish dance, festive food, and local artistry.
Tape B Concert
Tuesday, November 11th, 2025 · 7:00-8:30 p.m. — State Theatre — $55 — Experience the sounds of Tape B live in concert at the iconic State Theatre in Portland.
Literacy Tour 2025 with Julie Falatko
Wednesday, November 12th, 2025 · 3:30–4:30 p.m. — Portland Public Library — Free entry — Explore enchanting stories with Daniel Tiger and Maine's own Julie Falatko.